Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam has assigned key ministries and agencies to research and develop coronavirus vaccines after Vietnam controlled the two main coronavirus testing methods.

Taking a patient's sample for testing
  

The decision was made at a meeting in Hanoi on April 29 between Deputy PM Vu Duc Dam, who is also Chairman of the National Steering Committee on COVID-19 Prevention and Control, and representatives of several relevant ministries. 

Accordingly, the task will be carried out by the Ministry of Science and Technology in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology of Vietnam, and a number of other research agencies.

Participants noted that local research units and scientists have already isolated, cultured and identified the virus since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak in Vietnam. They have also produced bio-products for coronavirus testing and gradually completed the treatment therapy for patients, making an effective contribution to COVID-prevention and control. 

Participants also discussed the results of research on viruses, bio-products for testing, and directions on research and production of COVID-19 vaccines in the world. 

Sharing difficulty in producing such a vaccine, however, scientists expressed their belief they will have positive research directions in the near future under the coordination and guidance of the Ministry of Science and Technology. 

Currently Vietnam has controlled two main methods of coronavirus testing, using the Real-Time-PCR and antibody diagnosis.